Jolivet: Suite française & Rhapsodie à sept

Dive into the rich tapestry of French chamber music with André Jolivet's "Jolivet: Suite française & Rhapsodie à sept," a captivating collection released in 1958. This album showcases Jolivet's mastery of composition, blending traditional French musical elements with innovative techniques inspired by his admiration for composers like Bartók and Schoenberg.

The album opens with "Suite française," a four-movement suite that explores a range of moods and tempos. From the alert and energetic "Alerte" to the calm and lively "Calme, puis allègre," each movement offers a unique sonic experience. The suite was composed in 1957 and premiered at the O.R.T.F. on September 28, 1958, and it's a testament to Jolivet's ability to evoke vivid imagery through music.

The second half of the album features "Rhapsodie à sept," a septet for an ensemble of clarinet, bassoon, cornet, trombone, percussion, violin, and double bass. Composed in 1957 and premiered at the Festival of Brunswick in Germany in 1959, this piece is a showcase of Jolivet's skill in writing for diverse instrumental combinations. The three movements, "Résolu," "Hiératique," and "Incisif," each bring their own character, from the determined and resolute to the hieratic and incisive.

Performed by the Orchestre Colonne under Jolivet's own direction, this album is a rare opportunity to hear the composer's works in their original mono recordings. The performances are marked by precision and a deep understanding of Jolivet's unique musical language. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rewarding exploration of one of the 20th century's most distinctive voices in French music.